Reserve Bank of Australia Museum

Inside the Reserve Bank of Australia building at 65 Martin Place, this museum traces the story of Australian money, from early settlement banknotes to polymer currency. Its displays connect changing designs with Australia’s social and economic history, and explain the Reserve Bank’s role. Look for original notes, coin and banknote exhibits, and hidden images in polymer notes. Interactive screens and children’s activity booklets add ways for younger visitors to explore. The museum is currently closed for renovations, so check its website before planning a visit.

Australian currency through the years

The museum follows the development of Australian money across major periods, beginning with currency used in the early settlement era and continuing to modern banknotes. Original notes give the collection a direct link to that history. The displays also place currency in the context of the country’s social and economic changes.

Banknote designs offer details to look for as you move through the exhibits. Some include people and symbols that point to changing ideas about national identity. Polymer notes have hidden images that can be found by examining the designs closely.

Inside the Reserve Bank building

The museum is on the ground floor of the Reserve Bank of Australia at 65 Martin Place. Its exhibits explain the work of the central bank alongside the story of the notes it issues. The displays are arranged in sections by era, with interpretive screens and interactive elements.

Children can use activity booklets to seek out information as they go. The museum also has assisted listening devices and restroom facilities. Its entrance can be hard to identify from the street, so check the museum’s directions before setting out.